Open left menu Hua Hin. Hua Hin reviews. Features of the Hua Hin resort and our impressions Hua Hin city in Thailand
If you follow us on Instagram, you know that it’s already the third month since we arrived in Bali, and for now we plan to stay here until the end of summer 2017 at least (and maybe longer).
But before that, we spent 2 wonderful winter months in Thailand - we were passing through Bangkok several times, and the rest of the time we lived mainly on the coast - in Hua Hin.
It is this resort that this article is dedicated to, in it I will tell you about Hua Hin, its pros and cons, why we decided to spend this winter there, and I will share my conclusions. I’ll warn you right away - the article is long, there are a lot of photographs, just other articles about Hua Hin, about beaches, everyday attractions, etc. We won’t have it, so we had to fit everything into one =)
If you had told me 3 years ago that we would come to Hua Hin to spend 2 months here, I would have laughed and would never have believed it)) Exactly 3 years ago we lived here for a month and left thinking that we would never return to this the most boring resort! After all, Thailand is full of the most interesting and beautiful places, and even then we fell endlessly in love with Phangan, and to this day this island is our most favorite place in Tai.
And at the same time, we went to Hua Hin for this winter, since it ideally suited all our current needs! Yes, there were some fears that I would get very bored, because the resort has a reputation as a “retirement”, not very expressive place, but to our own surprise, this did not happen, and we discovered that we liked it here as we grew older. Looking ahead, I can even say with confidence that we will return here again.
If you are interested in Thailand in terms of wintering (not 2 week's vacation when bright emotions, the azure sea and other delights of the tropics are important), and you are just looking for a place for a calm measured life, including with a small child, or comfortable place for remote work, then Hua Hin is very suitable for this.
Below I will explain what exactly attracted us to this resort now, but I’ll immediately make a reservation once again: we were not going for impressions and eventful trips. We chose a place to live, not a place to vacation. If we were talking about a vacation, we would go to Phangan, Koh Chang, Phuket or Krabi. So, if you are planning a vacation in Thailand, then Hua Hin is not the place that I will recommend to you!
Why am I paying attention to this again? The fact is that many of our readers, impressed by the photographs and stories about the same thing, go on vacation in our footsteps and remain delighted, but there are also those who follow us on Instagram and think, well, since we love such cool places , then Hua Hin is clearly one of them, they come here for 1-2 weeks and are disappointed, they regret that they had already booked accommodation for the entire period or left ahead of time from another pleasant place, etc..
I agree, some photos of Hua Hin and the beach can be very beautiful, for example, the sea at noon can be quite turquoise,
and the beach at dawn is softly pink and deserted in places,
these photos convey the mood/atmosphere at a particular moment in time, but do not provide any information, for example, that in Hua Hin in winter the sea is quite cool, and there are also a lot of simply giant jellyfish ((
5 other places in Thailand that are better for a two-week getaway
Therefore, if we are talking about a short-term vacation, then it is better to go to one that is still relatively wild and, or already a little poppy and overloaded with tourists, but still not devoid of its charm, and at the same time quite developed and comfortable in terms of infrastructure. On Koh Samui, as well as on Koh Phangan, there are beautiful bays with palm trees, warm turquoise water, and also a huge selection of cool hotels and villas for every taste.
One should not exclude a wonderful one with a well-developed infrastructure, a lot of different beaches, hundreds of hotels and condominiums. Even if during the peak season it is crowded with tourists, then at the end of the season it is very pleasant there.
Or go to the province of Krabi with numerous beauties in the area - karst mountains, famous islands and bays. In my opinion this is one of the the most beautiful resorts in Thailand (though not without its drawbacks), by the way, this is where our journey began, we spent the first month in Krabi!
If the sea is not important, and you want to get acquainted with the culture of the country, undergo training in massage or cultural events, comfort and good Internet for remote work are important, and you also do not tolerate heat, high humidity and crowds of tourists, but still want to go on vacation in winter, then we recommend going to the north of Thailand, at this time of year the climate there is wonderful!
Among the minuses of the sea, I would like to note that in winter there are a lot of jellyfish here, and they are all gigantic, I didn’t want to meet one while swimming... and at the same time, many tourists and expats swam in the sea anyway.
Infrastructure in Hua Hin
There are no problems with this in Hua Hin, the city and resort are well developed, there are all the popular Thai supermarkets and hypermarkets - Tesco, BigSi, Macro, 7/11 and FamilyMart convenience stores on almost every corner.
Food markets are also present in all areas of the city, as are visiting vendors from cars.
It was convenient for us to purchase fresh products - both vegetables/fruits and fish/seafood right next to our house. Literally a 5-minute walk from us, 2 times a week (on Tuesdays and Saturdays) there was a market with fresh products. Most of the traders there are from the villages, both expats and locals shopped at the market, which is a good sign, and the prices were really low. After some time, some merchants remembered us, recognized us and gave us discounts.
Hua Hin has several shopping complexes and shopping malls, the most popular is probably Market Village, and the newest and most stylish is Blue Port. In addition to boutiques and trendy cafes and coffee shops, there is a supermarket with all sorts of gourmet products - from imported Korean and European delicacies to superfoods (seeds chia, quinoa and other healthy things).
On the way out of the city, towards Bangkok, there are a couple of outlets with boutiques and cafes.
In Hua Hin large number pharmacies and hospitals, both public and private, are all located on the main central street. This time, fortunately, we didn’t go there, but on the last visit I was, and I was satisfied with the service provided at Bangkok Hospital.
Hua Hin has both trendy restaurants/coffee shops and small-town cafes, most of them are concentrated in the central part of the city.
For example, we are fans of Indian cuisine, and on our first visit 3 years ago we noticed an Indian restaurant run by an Indian family, their food is really delicious, and the tables are all outdoors in a pleasant garden, so we stopped by them this time too repeatedly!
By the way, in Hua Hin you can even try Moroccan cuisine in the Marrakech restaurant, at the hotel of the same name Marrakesh Hua Hin Resort & Spa
And what unusual desserts are served with Moroccan tea?
Mmmm, delicious!
And it’s also photogenic (by the way, the blue and red tea sets are edible), I don’t know how I missed the moment and didn’t even post anything on Instagram =)
One of the fashionable stylish places was right in our seemingly residential area, Takiab - Air space, we even wrote separately about this restaurant/pastry shop -
The establishment opened just recently, and has already gained popularity; live music is played here in the evenings.
And of course, since this seaside resort, you can have dinner with a sea view :)
Hua Hin has a cinema, a water park and a zoo, so if you get really bored, you can go there too)
And in Hua Hin there are night markets and food courts, with entertainment program on weekends. Most often we visited Tamarind night market and Cicada, they are right on Takiab, at the latter, in addition to bread and circuses, you can also buy all sorts of non-standard handmade souvenirs,
Both markets are open from Friday to Sunday from 5 pm.
There is also a central “night market”, but it was far from us, and we had never been there during this visit. There are daily food courts in shopping malls.
There is an immigration center in Hua Hin (at major resorts they are available almost everywhere, except Phangan), this is important for those who want to stay in Thailand and extend their stay, and also if you need a certificate, for example, from the police (Lyosha in Hua Hin decided to get a Thai car license and pass for a motorbike license). By the way, he did all this successfully :)
Prices in Hua Hin
Hua Hin is considered a royal resort,
and this leaves its mark on the formation of prices, but fortunately not on everything, and again, depending on what you compare with.
Housing here, yes, is more expensive than in Chiang Mai, Pattaya and the center of Phuket. But there are also acceptable options. Yes, there are not many of them, they are either in the central part of Hua Hin, but a couple of kilometers from the sea, or just on Takiab, where we lived.
If we talk about housing not on the shore, but within walking distance from the sea (5-7 minutes), then prices start from $500-600 for a studio apartment, single-bedroom apartments with a separate living room-kitchen and double-bedroom apartments cost more - from $800.
Separate comfortable houses from $1000. If we talk about apartments, the cost does not include the cost of electricity and water, and sometimes the Internet (which is another $50-100 on top). I wrote specifically about comfortable housing of the European level, with a swimming pool, security and other amenities, we did not consider options for very cheap housing, probably such housing also exists, but not everyone will find it comfortable.
All apartments, as a rule, are in condominiums, where there is a nice large swimming pool with sun loungers and a gym, some kind of common recreation area with free wi-fi, 24-hour security, parking, well-groomed territory. The new condominiums are especially cool and stylish, for example our pool,
and this is the entrance.
It’s hard for me to imagine that in St. Petersburg we would find an ordinary house with such an interior next to an elevator.
And this is the view from the window!
Apartments on the shore are significantly more expensive, but they have their advantages!
As for food prices, they are lower than on the islands; it seemed to us more profitable to buy fruits, vegetables and fish in markets than in stores.
Mangoes were 50 baht per 1 kg, dragonfruits 40, young coconuts 20, longans and jackfruit 60, chompa 30, passionfruit 70, grapes 90-110, avocados - 120, cucumbers/tomatoes 10-15 baht, eggplants /zucchini/zucchini - 15-25, sweet corn - 20. These are prices for 1 kg, and if individually, then small watermelons 15-20, papaya 12-15, pomelo 25-35, pineapples 5-15, heads broccoli, cauliflower, pumpkin quarters for 10-15 baht, bunches of greens for 10-15, lettuce leaves - 15-25, asparagus - 30.
They took fish for 50-100 baht per kilogram, shrimp 120-180, and they even cleaned it all for us for free.
Milk - 40 baht, yoghurts - 18-25 per 200 ml jar, we often cooked curry at home with coconut milk (30 baht for 0.5 liter).
Massage in local salons - from 250-350 baht.
Laundries (automated washing machines and dryers) 20-30 baht per wash, 20 per dryer if needed. There are such automatic laundries on every corner, they have one drawback, washing in cold water + you need to come with your own powder. There are also standard laundries, where everything is washed in hot water and returned neatly folded and ironed within a day - 25-30 baht per 1 kg.
Public transport is cheap - songthaew costs 10-30 baht, depending on the distance of the trip. The proximity to Bangkok is good (buses and minibuses cost 155-180 baht one way, travel time 3 hours), there is a railway station. Taxis are about the same as on the islands, but if compared to Bangkok, they are expensive, they don’t go according to the meter, there are no Uber or Grabtaxi here. There is a car rental, we only rented a motorbike (200 baht per day).
Places of inspiration, nature in Hua Hin
Hua Hin is not without places that are pleasing to the eye! Place #1 for me is definitely the beach!!
I love the sea very much - both just looking at it and walking along seashore, and listen to the sound of the surf.
Oddly enough, the temples of Hua Hin are also charming,
they primarily attract not with their architecture, decoration and other Buddhist regalia,
and the views from their territory!
It’s really amazingly nice that the Thais choose truly magical places for their temples,
for example, somewhere on a mountain with a stunning view of the sunrise or sunset,
There are even separate viewing terraces right on the temple grounds.
And hurray, there were three such temples in our Takiab district! So, when strong tides were raging at sea, going up to the site of such a temple at dawn or sunset was just the thing! There are parks, observation decks in other parts of the city,
We were there sometimes too.
Hua Hin is also popular among golf lovers - there are quite a lot of courses of different levels.
Neighborhoods of Hua Hin
If you are tired of the beaches of Hua Hin, you can always get on a bike and go either inland to the waterfalls, or along the sea to a couple of national parks and other beaches.
Closest to our area (Takiab is located in the south of the city) is Pranburi Forest Park, notable for its mangroves and a small path through them. You can also take a boat ride in the mangroves; we were once in a mangrove reserve in Lembongan (Indonesia) and there we were just making our way through the thickets on a small boat. We came here just for a walk :)
In general, mangroves with paths were right next to our house, literally a 5-minute walk, that’s quite new park, and alas, you won’t find such lush greenery there
or a dramatic picture, as in Pranburi.
In the Takiab mangroves, there are mostly very young bushes, but all the paths are circular, so we often used these urban thickets for morning jogs/walks, which was especially important during periods of strong tides.
this is an incredibly pleasant place, quiet and peaceful with a jogging/biking path along the beach and a few resorts.
And next is one of my favorite parks in all of Thailand – Khao Sam Roi Yot,
I'm not kidding, he's just amazing
and also not crowded. There is small mountains and trekking with picturesque views
and observation decks,
my favorite viewpoint is Khao Daeng View Point!
There is also a lake with lotuses and unique caves, one of them is an absolute “must visit”, this is the royal cave of Phraya Nakon, it has several halls,
and the most stunning attraction here is the "Golden Pavilion" (Kuha Karuhas pavillon).
At noon, the sun's rays turn the gazebo dazzlingly golden, alas, we were in the park twice and each time at the wrong time((
On the way to this cave you can meet funny langurs :)
Other caves are also quite spectacular, and most of them also lead to trekking, we visited a couple.
Also, in Sam Roi Yot Park there are several beaches - Bang Pu
V picturesque bay, which you can look at from above
and Laem Sala beach
There is also a river in the park where you can ride in a bamboo boat.
There is a place for camping, you can rent a house or rent a tent, foam, sleeping bags, a place for a barbecue and have a great weekend, but you can just go for a day, from Hua Hin it’s only about 50 km one way, and from our Takiab it’s even closer.
Well, in the north, towards Bangkok, 25 km away there is resort village Cha Am.
The beach there is not that remarkable, except that it can’t be called very urban, like in Hua Hin,
There is still a more relaxed resort atmosphere here, with cafes and hotels stretching across the road along the beach.
Cha-Am has various types of entertainment - a sheep farm, a camel republic, a couple of amusement parks and a water park.
There are also temples, but what we remember most in Cha-Am is the national Khao Park Nang Panthurat with very expressive rocks on which you can walk.
There are several short ones, but good in terms of morning physical activity, routes,
We were in this park a couple of times and each time early in the morning, we arrived at dawn, otherwise it would be very hot to walk around later.
In general, the nature of Cha-Am in the surrounding area is very different from Hua Hin; in addition to the rocks, there are green rice fields.
But this is already quite far, and it is better to combine such trips, for example, with a trip to Bangkok, by the way, that’s what we did.
I will also definitely write about Bangkok; every time we come to Thailand, we somehow spend a couple of days, and sometimes more, in its capital. I have already written that we are not fans of this large metropolis, but we love it much more, we were there three times a week and would happily return there, even when I look for air tickets to Asia, the first thing I look for is connections through Hong Kong :)
Well, in Bangkok we always have forced connections, as it is a major hub, and at the same time, we always try to use the time profitably, find interesting places, cool hotels, observation decks, trendy cafes and amazing rooftop restaurants. All the interesting things about Bangkok, as you understand, is a topic for a separate article :)
Finally, some Thai children's smiles for you! Bye bye!
Would you come to live in Hua Hin? I’m not asking about vacations, although I know there are tourists who would probably like to spend their vacation here :)
At a distance of 25 kilometers from a place called Cha Am there is Hua resort-Hin. It is famous for its five-kilometer white sand beach and countless golf courses. There are several hotels here, built in the English style, full of grace, which are in perfect harmony with the splendor of the resort’s nature. You should definitely choose a holiday in Hua Hin, Thailand.
This resort can be considered one of the oldest resorts in the country. A hundred years ago, construction of a palace began here, which later became the summer residence of the king of the country. This palace is still one of the favorite vacation spots of the royal family. In Hua Hin, all hotels are upscale. Basically they all have 4 or 5 stars. We can say that tourists relax here, preferring a comfortable relaxing holiday, secluded from the bustle of the city. The absence of noisy parties at night attracts couples with children to these places.
This place is very easy to get to from Bangkok. The journey by car usually takes approximately 3.5 hours. You can also take the train or bus. Both types of transport are usually equipped with air conditioning. The journey takes the same 3.5 hours, and the ticket will cost you 250 baht.
From the Hua Hin bus station there are flights to many cities in the country. You can go to Phetchaburi, Cha-Am, Chumphon, Phuket and other cities. In addition, several people pass through the resort at night. regular buses traveling from Baghkok to Koh Samui or Phuket. If you have the means, you can book a private jet.
Where is the best place to stay?
In the city area, more than 400 hotels, inns and guest houses have been built to serve vacationers for a wide variety of tastes. Among the most famous and most popular hotels are the Hilton Hua Hin Resort & Spa, located in the central part of the city, Devasom Hua Hin Resort, which is located on a private beach, Hyatt Regency Hua Hin, more suitable for families and children, and Centara Grand Beach Resort& Villas Hua Hin, which is also located in the central part of the resort. The price of a room in these comfortable hotels ranges from 3,000 baht to 5,000 baht per night.
There are also budget hotels in the city with air conditioning and hot water. Rooms in such hotels will cost you from 300 baht per day. The cost of accommodation in guesthouses for two starts from 700 baht per night.
The tropical climate affects how much a holiday in Hua Hin costs. Therefore, there is a rainy season, a cool season and a hot season. Better weather for recreation it stands in this place from the beginning of winter until the beginning of April. But you must understand that a holiday here during the high season will cost you a lot. Therefore, you should not refuse a holiday in Hua Hin during the rainy season. The rains here at this time of year are short and only fall at night.
What to take with you?
Packing your luggage for a holiday abroad is a very responsible matter. The most important thing is to prepare everything necessary documents, as well as several copies of photocopies. It is best to distribute the copies different places, but so that they are always at hand. Other required documents include health insurance. It is better not to save on its cost. Anything can happen on a trip. Do the same with air tickets. You need to print them out and make several copies, placing them in different parts of your luggage.
Be sure to pack a first aid kit. Stock up on medications to reduce body temperature and medications that relieve food poisoning. Don't forget to bring your camera, flash drive, charger, batteries, etc.
What to see?
The first thing a tourist should visit in Hau Hin is the palace of the Klai Kwong royal family, as well as a religious temple called Wat Neranchararama. This temple is famous for having the largest statue depicting Buddha with six arms.
Among the natural attractions and interesting places Among them are waterfalls and national parks and the city of Phet Buri, where excursions go to visit temples, palaces and the Khao Luang cave, where there are almost two hundred Buddha statues.
If you prefer active recreation, then on the beaches you will be offered to ride a yacht or water scooter, windsurf or go horseback riding. Golf is actively developing in this region. There are several golf clubs, many golf courses, and training courses on this game are organized.
Other entertainment includes eco-tours, fishing, elephant riding, kiteboarding, various resort water activities, karting and more.
Those who like to relax and spend time at the spa will also like it here. The question of how much this entertainment costs should not worry vacationers. Prices for spa services here are very affordable. At the same time, you will be offered both regular Thai massage and more modern procedures, detox courses, alternative medicine, and skin cleansing procedures. There is also a special international hotel in Hua Hin, Chiva-Som International Health Resort, where the main focus is fitness. Everything here is subordinated to health - fitness, spa, food, various procedures, and yoga.
Beaches
All beach area This resort can be divided into three different zones. In the northern and southern parts Tourists with families and small children prefer to relax on the beach. It's calm and peaceful here. But in the central part, mostly young people and partygoers gather.
Hua Hin City Beach originates from a landmark called " Stone head"and stretches for several kilometers. Here you can buy souvenirs at inexpensive price. This beach is always crowded, you can find entertainment for every taste.
The southern zone of the beach begins at Mount Khao Takiab. This beach is very narrow. In many places you can go straight into the water from the steps. Therefore, there are few people in this part, and when it rains, it is completely empty. Khao Takiab beach is always clean, as the beach area is cleaned every weekend. Here you can inexpensively rent a sun lounger and go water skiing.
Suan Son Beach can be called a continuation of Khao Takiab. Entry into its territory is paid and costs 10 baht. This is very picturesque place with dense thickets of shady vegetation.
In the northern part is Sai Noi Beach. You can reach it at public transport. Tourists recognize this beach as one of the best. There is no special infrastructure, shops or tents.
Wide but uncrowded Tao beach starts at the mountain of the same name. This beach is suitable for children and those who have never learned to swim well. Its feature is shallow water. There is an observation deck on Mount Tao famous temple Turtles.
To the north of Hua Hin, near Mount Cha Am, the beach of the same name originates. It is very inexpensive to rent accommodation here, which attracts a large number of tourists. For this reason, there are always a lot of people on the beach. In addition, there is a highway next to the beach, which attracts a huge number of tourists to this beach.
Hua Hin(Hua Hin) is great place for holidays in Thailand. Consider beaches, hotels, attractions and prices for vacations.
How to get to the resort
If you buy a ticket for the bus standing at the South Terminal of Bangkok for a trip to the Hua Hin resort, then in a little less than 4 hours it will take you to this blessed place. And it is significant if only because here you can observe with your own eyes the life of Thai fishermen, without carving out time specifically for this purpose. The resort is designed in such a way that there is also a fishing port on its territory. The king himself, a century ago, chose this place to relax and called it a place far from worries. Buses go to Hua Hin almost all daylight hours at 20-minute intervals. Tickets can be purchased for buses of different comfort classes.
If you have a budget vacation option, then a 3rd class bus with air conditioning is just what will allow you to relax economically. You can also get there by minivan, but it will be more expensive. But the plane will take you to the resort in just half an hour and allow you to see the beauty of this place from above. And there is something to look at and be surprised at. And the holes into which a small airplane can fall will be quickly forgotten ( large planes due to the fact that the distance is very small - about 300 km, they do not fly here). Private flight cost aircraft approximately the same as a trip to Hua Hin by taxi and is about 3,000 baht.
Beaches of Hua Hin
City Beach
The most beautiful beach in Hua Hin is considered to be the city beach separated from the fishing port by cliffs.
Snow-white sand, gently sloping shore, pure water, freedom for children and the opportunity for them to stay in the water on the shallows - only this can encourage tourists to visit this beautiful beach.
Hat Khao Tao Beach
And next to the city beach is Hat Khao Tao Beach. It is more secluded than a city one, and tourists who prefer peace and quiet like to relax there.
Cha-Am Beach
It offers its guests many water attractions and water activities. It stretches along the jungle and mountains for such a length that it is considered one of the longest in the country. Silence and solitude accompany everyone who visits it.
Hua Hin Beach
If you want to sit in a chic restaurant, or you are staying in an expensive luxury hotel, then Hua Hin Beach awaits you. It is located next to expensive hotels and restaurants. At the edge of the beach there is a rock cliff from which it gets its name.
Pranburi Beach
And for tourists vacationing on budget option, Pranburi Beach is suitable. It is comfortable and quiet. Located 30 kilometers from the center of Hua Hin, close to national park. There are also several calm beaches located in the bays where people mainly relax local residents. But it is also convenient for guests there, but only for those who like to relax and enjoy peace and quiet.
Sights of Hua Hin
One of the attractions of Hua Hin is the railway station. This building is the oldest in the country, and the anna was erected by order of King Rama Vl of Siam. The architecture of the station is so unique and built taking into account all Thai traditions that it is impossible to understand it right away. Particularly gorgeous Royal Hall. The Royal Summer Palace, erected by order of the king at the beginning of the last century, amazes with its beauty. All 3 palaces have sea views and currently serve as the royal summer residence. A national park in the jungle where there are waterfalls, caves, and monkeys...
The waterfalls are so beautiful that it is impossible not to look at this wonder of nature. Although one of them is located right in the jungle, it can be reached by trekking. All kinds of birds of different colors will surprise you with their diversity. The second attraction of Hua Hin is the Buddha statue on a hill located 4 km from the city. There is also a Buddhist temple with an observation deck, which offers wonderful views of the surrounding area. For those tourists who decide to touch everything with their own hands and taste spicy Thai dishes, it won’t hurt to go to night market. This is where all the abundance of flavors is concentrated, from drinks to ice cream.
Vacation prices
As throughout Thailand, holidays in Hua Hin are divided into three categories. It's the rainy season, cool and also hot.
The most successful season, of course, is from the beginning of December to the end of March. But in Hua Hin this is the season for expensive, and even very, holidays.
When purchasing a tour to a five-star hotel during this period, you will have to spend a fairly large amount, in the range of 100-150 thousand rubles. If you buy a tour in a good place, not so good expensive hotel, for example, Thipurai City Hotel, then you can get by with an amount 2 times less. Tourists planning to visit Hua Hin should not neglect their holidays during the rainy season. That’s just what it’s called, but it rains at night and for no more than an hour.
Travel costs can be reduced significantly. And you can purchase a last-minute tour after preparing for the tour in advance. And it will cost a minimal amount, and the holiday will be great at any time of the year. The only thing is that there are jellyfish on the beaches during the rainy season. But this is not such a misfortune, because of which you can refuse a cheap trip to the country of exoticism and dreams. The price of the trip will depend entirely on preferences and capabilities. Therefore, everyone decides for themselves.
Main excursions
There are quite a lot of excursions offered in Hua Hin, to suit different tastes and budgets.
Sightseeing tour
If you decide to see everything at once, buy a ticket for sightseeing tour. Here you will be offered a trip with a tour of the royal residences, a national park, a railway station, a view from the observation deck at the Buddha Temple, where you can also see the statue of the Goddess of Mercy and purchase handmade silk souvenirs. The only thing is that the time spent at each place is limited.
Excursion to the National Park
It will take the whole day, but there will be a lot of impressions. You can take a boat ride around, visit the mangroves, contemplate birds with colorful plumage along with a huge number of butterflies, visit a cave, and see Khao Dang Mountain. Isn't it worth spending time and money on this?!
Excursion to a dance show
Dinner at a restaurant where you will be offered not only exotic dishes, but also an amazing dance show. And keep in mind, not only will you be able to see this, but also hear the history of national dances. And this is worth a lot.
Excursion to the vineyards
You can also taste Thai wine in the vineyards if you go on an excursion to the Wat Huai temple. Here is the symbolic gateway to the south of Thailand. If you like the wine, you will be immediately offered to buy it. And the quality of Thai wines was highly appreciated by professionals.
Weather at the resort
Hua Hin is ready to receive guests all year round, fortunately the weather is favorable for this. The hottest month is May. But in winter, when we have frost and snow, it’s just wonderful there. But sometimes there are winds. And if there is wind, then it can be quite big waves. The weather is also good during the rainy season. The air is warmed up to + 30, the sea is just waiting for swimmers, and if it rains at night, it’s still night. And there is nothing wrong with that.
Hua Hin Hotels
Baan Talay Chine Boutique Resort Hotel
This hotel is probably the best in Hua Hin. Luxurious, located in the garden, it offers guests villas with swimming pools, one and two-room apartments, service at the highest level. It is located next to expensive restaurants. All rooms are furnished with Chinese furniture, TV and all the attributes modern life. You can invite massage therapists and take advantage of room delivery services for lunch and dinner. You can also play golf on site. The horses will also be happy to take you around the surrounding area.
Asara Villa & Suite Hotel
This 5 star hotel is located right next to Hua Hin Beach. It has about 100 rooms, furnished with wooden furniture and 21st century appliances.
- spa
- spa pool
- massage room
- 5 restaurants
Each room has a terrace with sea or garden views. Canoes are available for vacationers to ride in the bay. The chefs also offer European cuisine.
G.House
This hotel is designed for tourists with modest incomes. But even a rich person is not ashamed to stay there. The staff offers a variety of recreation options. The rooms have refrigerators, television, and bathrooms. Here you can use Internet services, luggage storage, and safes. Everything is ready for a comfortable stay in the rooms. Tourists do not come to spend all their time in a hotel.
Hua Hin, small provincial town, located on west coast Gulf of Thailand two hundred kilometers south of, it fits the definition "Potemkin Village". The fact is that it was chosen as the summer residence of the royal family. Therefore, an exemplary Siamese province is cultivated in it - the way the king himself would like to see it. Many Hua Hin attractions created specifically for tourists. For example, . However, excursions to the sights of Hua Hin are quite an interesting and educational way to spend time.
Railway station
This landmark of Hua Hin is protocol, and for Thais it is sacred, almost sacred. Like everything connected with the name of the deceased king. Built in 1911, it became a symbol of the fact that the monarch honored the city with his attention and chose it as his residence, after which it flourished and turned into a resort. Now it carefully preserves the waiting room, specially built in 1920 for the king and members of his family. And this despite the fact that in recent years, crowned heads have not sought to travel around railway. All official guides to Thailand state that this is the most beautiful railway platform in the country. Read more about and how to travel between some provinces.
Cicada Market
If you have no idea at all, what to see in Hua Hin On a weekend evening, head to the Cicada Market located on Khao Takiab Street in the southern part of the city. This is its main party place, where not only tourists, but also local residents gather. Artists open galleries there under open air, get settled theater shows, there is live music. There are souvenir shops where you can buy crafts inspired by the hand of a master, and not standard consumer goods. There you can go shopping and alternate it with relaxation to the music of local bards. The interesting thing is that various snacks are sold there not for cash, but with coupons for which you exchange baht at the entrance. You can try all sorts of delicious European, Thai or Chinese cuisine by sitting at a free table.
Night Market
One more attraction in Hua Hin which is visited after sunset. The market on Soi 72 starts at 17:00. In general, for Thailand, the revival of life after the heat of the day subsides is quite common. There are such night fairs and food courts on other streets. The range of goods is quite standard: souvenirs, clothes, shoes... Next to shopping arcades Cafes and shops are open. Many dishes, including seafood and huge, two-kilogram lobsters, are cooked in front of customers using an open fire. You definitely need to know in order to save a few extra baht.
Wat Ampharam Temple
The Wat Ampharam temple, which, excuse the pun, has nothing remarkable. There are more beautiful places of worship in Thailand. The whole point, again, is the closeness of the royal family. This is a functioning complex consisting of a monastery, a temple and a columbarium.
Monkey Mountain - Khao Takiab
Khao Takiab is a mountain, the visual dominant of the city, which gives its name to the street and the whole area. Its height is 272 meters. Don't expect to see "herds" there. Several elderly monkeys live out their lives on its top, where there is also a temple Wat Khao Lat, whose architecture combines Chinese and Siamese styles. On the half-mountain, facing the city, stands a 20-meter tall Buddha statue. There are several viewing platforms.
Sam Roi Yot National Park
This attraction of Hua Hin is the largest, because its area is 98 square meters. kilometers. It would be more correct to call it “The Kingdom of Siam in Miniature”. The natural landscape, where there are mountains, beaches, and virgin tropical forests full of strange animals, is decorated with temples. The park was created in 1966. It is worth setting aside two or three days to visit it, and traveling around the territory in a rented car.
Pala-U Waterfall
Sixty kilometers west of Hua Hin, almost on the border with Myanmar, is Kaeng Krachan National Park. Its decoration is the Palau Falls (Pa La-U, Pala-U), the highest in Thailand. It consists of sixteen steps. If you manage to climb to its top, you will enjoy views of Central Thailand and neighboring Myanmar. The border jungle is almost untouched and full of exotic animals. On the road from Hua Hin to the waterfall you can meet people walking freely.
Shopping complex Venezia
The Venice shopping and entertainment complex is located twenty kilometers north of Hua Hin, on the road to Bangkok. Something similar, but in French style in Pattaya (). Two Italian-style streets, a canal along which visitors are taken on gondola rides. There are several shops and a restaurant. There is an interactive zoo (exclusively sheep). The exhibition of 3D paintings is very interesting. You can “embed” into each of them and take an original photo as a keepsake.
Baan Silapin - artists' village
Baan Silapin Artist Village is sure to please fans fine arts. It is located four kilometers west of the city center, in a shady grove. This artistic village was founded in 1989 by artist Tawee Kesa-ngam, who left bustling Bangkok for inspiration. The community of free artists organized around him is close in lifestyle and worldview to the hippie subculture. You can chat with masters working in different genres, and also buy unique works in your own way. For example, wooden etchings of Buddha, terracotta figurines, landscapes.
Temple complex Wat Huay Mongkol
A real Buddhist shrine, to which people come from all over the world to pay their respects. Its spiritual center is a huge statue of the monk Luang Phor Tuad, revered in Thailand and beyond. Because of the color, the sculpture is called “Black Monk”. The complex is surrounded by a park with traditional Thai canals, bridges and goldfish ponds. Physical hunger can be satisfied in a cafe, where the food is quite tasty.
Vineyards
Hua Hin Hills Vineyard grape plantations are located thirty kilometers west of the city. They are on the list official excursions sightseeing in Hua Hin. From half past eight in the morning until half past six in the evening you can walk there and even taste the growing grapes. Juice or wine is sold at a restaurant nearby. Among other things, this place is also a wonderful observation deck.
Royal Palace
Mrigadayavan Palace – Hua Hin landmark, to which this city owes its actual birth. Built in 1923, it transformed a fishing village into a royal resort. The residence of Rama IV is a must-see destination. Entrance to it is paid, but this is not all the conditions for visitors. They must take off their shoes and behave as befits a royal audience.
Temple ship Wat Ta Nod Luang
Buddhism is a religion that is tolerant of almost everything. Therefore among places of worship you can find quite a lot. For example, Wat Ta Nod Luang is a temple ship located near the village of Bang Kao, a few kilometers from the coast. Its appearance combines traditional Buddhist attributes and elements of ship equipment. The elephant, ubiquitous in temples in Thailand, holds a steering wheel on its head, and the central panel of the temple depicts scenes of a shipwreck. Its roof is decorated with thousands of small bells that ring in the wind. The temple was built recently, mainly to attract tourists. However, nearby is a truly ancient monastery, which contains a sculpture of the revered monk Luang Phor Thong Suk.
Turtle Temple Wat Khao Tao
Fifteen kilometers south of Hua Hin there is a very beautiful beach Sai Noi. It is also notable for the fact that Wat Khao Tao, the Turtle Temple, was built nearby. It can be considered a Buddhist park, since the landscape is decorated with man-made caves, picturesque paths, ladders, and unusually shaped stones. Like a cherry on the cake, all this romantic splendor is crowned by the temple. You can perform a ritual to attract good luck in it. As a thank you, leave an offering of 100 baht.
Khao Luang Cave Temple
The cave temple is a must-visit landmark of Hua Hin, despite its considerable remoteness. It is located near the city of Phetchaburi, a walk through the streets of which will be a good addition to the excursion.
Kaeng Krachan National Park
The national park is the largest in Thailand. Located on the border with Myanmar. Closest to it settlements– these are the cities of Hua Hin, Phetchaburi, Cha-Am. An array of almost untouched mountain tropical forest, replete with exotic animals and plants. Numerous rivers, waterfalls, and caves add to its picturesqueness. There is a hot spring. It is located sixty kilometers west of Hua Hin. The road itself can be an unforgettable adventure. There you can meet wild elephants.
Hin Lek Fai Viewpoint
It's more like a complex observation platforms, located on the slope of Khao Hin Lek Fai mountain with a height of 162 meters. Six places with stunning views of the outskirts of Hua Hin and the coast of the Gulf of Thailand are connected by picturesque paths and bridges. There is a park around them where orchids and other exotic plants grow.
mangrove forest
An attraction in Hua Hin, which is part of the larger Forest Park, where you can stroll through the very common Southeast Asia landscape - mangrove forest. Tourists walk along suspended bridges that are closed to each other. It is impossible to get lost there; at every turn there is a map of the park and an exit sign. The main feature of the place is the hordes of mangrove crabs swarming among clusters of aerial roots. The coastal part of Forest Park is interesting to visit not because there are many wonders there, but because of the opportunity for relaxation. There are benches and tables under the canopy of trees. Before entering the park there is a sandy beach called Pran Kiri - a wild, unequipped coastline.
Black woman
Near the town of Cha-Am there is Pak Tien Beach. It is famous for its statue, which has no official name, and therefore simply called “Black Woman”. It depicts a female sea demon who extends her hand towards a young Siamese prince sitting on a small island. At low tide you can reach the woman itself, which is six meters high. Due to constant contact with the sea elements, the Cyclopean structure is gradually destroyed.
General information
After the royal family left Bangpain, Thailand's oldest seaside resort became the summer residence of King Bhumibol. The most attractive thing about this quiet town is the 3 km long beach with fine white sand.
The heyday of Hua Hin is closely associated with the construction in 1910. railway line, going to the south of Thailand. From that moment on, the inconspicuous town came to the attention of the Bang Kok nobility, and above all Prince Nareth, the son of King Chula Longkorn, who built the first summer residence Sansamran. Subsequent princes and princesses added new parks and bungalows. At the residence of Rama VII, both living quarters and a park are open to visitors, but the palace of King Bhumibol on the western exit of the city is closed to the public.
This is where King Bhumibol and Queen Sirikit spend their summer vacation. You can see the king up close while sailing. He did not give up this hobby even in his old age. Of course, getting too close to the monarch is unacceptable, but is it not enough to say: “But the King of Thailand is sailing on that yacht”?
What to see
Fish market
In the morning you should definitely go to the lively fish market in the northern part of the city. Thailand's second largest fishing fleet is based in Hua Hin. In the morning hours, many tons of fish are unloaded ashore and transferred for further processing.
Royal Palace
The Royal Palace was built in the style of European country residences. King Prachatipok (Rama VII) named it "Klaik-langwan" ("Away from worries"). The palace, built in 1910, is surrounded by a magnificent park stretching all the way to the sea. On the southern tip sandy beach rises a head-like cliff that gives the city its name.
Wat Khau Lat
Very close by stands on the rock Wat Khau Lat, from where you can see beautiful view to the sea, mountains to the east and the village of Khautakiap. True, to do this you need to overcome a steep climb up many steps. From Hua Hin here every 20 minutes. there are buses.
Night market
It is worth checking out the daily Night Market on Dechanuchit Road, where in addition to shopping stalls there are many open-air cafes and eateries.
Railway station
On a small railway station Hua Hin has a restored steam locomotive. The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) used steam locomotives until 1975. Then it switched to diesel locomotives, and now some sections are electrified. The house that serves as a waiting room for the royal family is very elegant.
Neighborhoods of Hua Hin
Caves
In the surrounding limestone mountains (which are worth devoting half a day to) there are many caves you can visit, including the Dau Cave Temple, the Mailaple Grotto, as well as Kaylon and Kaifa with beautiful, but not very interesting artistically, Buddha statues.
Khautakiap Bay
Khautakiap Bay, 6 km south of Hua Hin, has particularly fine sand and excellent fish restaurants. The snow-white Buddha statue on the mountain looks impressive. In the temple behind it lives a large flock of wild monkeys.
Khausamroyot National Park
On the way to the city of Pranburi, located 25 km from Hua Hin, the traveler first passes several quiet bays, comfortable for swimming. South of Pranburi, a powerful limestone massif rises along the coast, nicknamed Samroyot (Range of 300 Peaks) for its numerous sharp teeth. These mountains are the central part of the national park with an area of 130 square meters. km. They abound in caves and gorges, representing part of a mountain range stretching from northern Thailand to the Malay Peninsula. The most spectacular geological formations are weird shape limestone towers more than 600 m high, rising among a wide plain.
While traveling through this part of the national park is easy and pleasant, further to the west its territory, covered with dense and lush vegetation, is not very hospitable. Marked walking routes not here, so self-guided tours not recommended. But to the west of Pranburi there is a road through the park, and there are also several trails laid by foresters. Sometimes you can see a variety of birds here. The national park is not decorated with numerous shrimp farms on the plain, established in the 1980s. This is visible evidence of the defeat of environmentalists in the fight against businessmen.
How to get there
- By car:
from Bangkok via National Highway No. 4 or No. 35 via Samut Songkh Temple. - By bus:
from Bangkok South Bus Station. Travel time is about 3 hours. - By train:
station on the main line Bangkok - Malacca Peninsula (229 km from Bangkok). Travel time is about 6 hours. - By plane:
Daily from Bangkok and Koh Samui.
